"We have not received any reports, but just like with any other piece of property, make sure you lock it up," he said.

A Roma resident who would prefer not be named said she experienced dog theft only last year.

"I have previously had one on my fence, about a year and half ago," she said.

"People came four nights in a row to take my dogs but they were unsuccessful.

"A night or two later they came back and smashed up my car windows."

It is important to report the incident to the police as soon as possible; this can prevent valuable evidence from being lost or destroyed. It may also help them catch the offender and prevent another person from being harmed.

If it is an emergency or the crime is happening at the time, phone 000. If it not an emergency and the crime has already happened, phone Policelink on 131444, or report it to Crime Stoppers on 1800333000.